Gera warning for new boss

Zoltan Gera insists Roy Hodgson's successor at Fulham should be ready to cope with high expectations.

Last Updated: 08/07/10 4:09pm

Zoltan Gera insists Roy Hodgson's successor at Fulham should be ready to cope with high expectations.

Former Switzerland boss Hodgson, who helped the west London club retain their Premier League status during his first season in charge and guided them to the Europa League final last term, has departed Craven Cottage for Liverpool.

The Cottagers have begun their search for a new manager, with former England boss Sven Goran Eriksson and Croatia coach Slaven Bilic reportedly in the frame for the post.

But Hungary midfielder Gera says that whoever takes over from 62-year-old Hodgson will be under pressure to deliver results.

"Hopefully we will get the new manager in soon and achieve the same level of success over the next few seasons," Gera told Fulham's official website.

"The expectations for next season are high - we had a great season last year and if we could finish back in the top 10 this season that would be perfect for us."

Painful

Gera admits the memories of Fulham's loss to Atletico Madrid in the Europa League finals are still painful, but has called on his team-mates to use that defeat as motivation in the Premier League next season.

"It was a successful season last year, but the final was very painful," he said.

"It was a great feeling to play in the final - yes we lost, but I have good memories from the competition.

"Unfortunately we won't be playing in the Europa League this season but we need to play well and enjoy another good season in the Premier League."

Caretaker boss Ray Lewington is set to remain at the helm for Fulham's opening pre-season friendly against Brentford at Griffin Park next Wednesday.